08 Aug 2022 | 08:07 PM UTC
India: Youth activists to protest outside state legislative assembly building in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh State, Aug. 12
Youth activists to surround state legislature building in Shimla, India, Aug. 12. Increased security likely.
Event
Activists affiliated with the Students’ Federation of India (SFI) and Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) plan to surround (gherao) the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, or Vidhan Sabha, building in Shimla Aug. 12. The purpose of the action is to denounce perceived policy failures by the state government related to education and employment; the protest coincides with the Aug. 10-13 legislative session. Organizers claim thousands of youths from across the state will participate.
Security personnel will almost certainly monitor the protest and may attempt to disperse the gathering if it becomes especially disruptive. While violence is unlikely, isolated clashes cannot be ruled out. Protesters may block or march along nearby roadways, prompting localized transport disruptions.
Advice
Avoid the protest as a security precaution. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Allow additional travel time if operating near the impacted area. Heed all official security and travel advisories.
